The United Nations (UN) in Malawi has called on all stakeholders to ensure heightened vigilance, protection, and justice for persons with albinism as the country heads toward the September 16 2025 General Election.
In a statement marking International Albinism Awareness Day on June 13 2025, the UN noted that election periods in recent years, has seen cases of killings, abductions and exhumations of remains of persons with albinism driven by harmful beliefs and practices.
“Elections must be a celebration of democracy, not a time of fear or insecurity for any group,” reads the statement.
It also highlighted the pressing challenge of preventable deaths due to skin cancer.
While commending the Malawi Government for making free sunscreen available in public health facilities, the UN called for strengthened efforts to expand coverage and ensure consistent supply.
Meanwhile, Association of Persons with Albinism in Malawi (Apam) will hold the Albinism Awareness Day on June 17 under the theme ‘United for peace and inclusion: Strengthening the protection of persons with albinism during all times, including election’.
In an interview yesterday, Apam president Young Muhamba said the association will today engage political parties in Lilongwe to sign commitments to take part in protecting persons with albinism.
